Heritage Academy engages in a continuous improvement process for STEM. Each PBL begins with a Project/Problem Based Learning Plan. Prior to the unit beginning, the educators review the PBL from the previous year or revamp the unit to suit the needs of their students.

In an effort to ensure that our revamped units produce the desired outcome, our process focuses on the following:

1. Grade level standards are mastered; therefore, the standards are listed along with the learning targets that students need for mastery.

2. Students are fully engaged with the Engineering Design Process; therefore, the EDP is clearly outlined in the plan for educators to map out what the students will do for each component.

3. Students are able to answer the Driving Question (DQ) of the PBL; therefore, the Driving Question drives the lessons along side the EDP. The students begin each lesson with the DQ.

4. Educators and students are given ample resources to accomplish the goal of the PBL; therefore, Heritage Academy has Science A-Z (reading text), Generation Genius (online videos and activities), STEMscopes (Science text and activities), and Gizmo (interactive labs) along with any other resources deemed necessary in order to successfully complete the PBL.

Throughout PBL implementation, educators complete gallery walks with the STEM Specialist to gain additional insight that can enhance their own units as well as to give feedback to peers. Once a quarter, we also invite the District's STEM Coordinator and other central office personnel to provide feedback on the PBLs. This feedback is utilized to make improvements.